Rihanna exit ruins Lollapalooza

The 28-year-old dropped out due to fears over the Zika virus. (Photo: Instagram, @badgalriri)

Colombia has the second highest number of Zika cases in the world. (Photo: Instagram, @badgalriri)

Organisers could not find a suitable replacement and were forced to cancel the two-day event. (Photo: Instagram, @badgalriri)

Lollapalooza Colombia has been cancelled after Rihanna pulled out of performing due to fears over the Zika virus.

The 28-year-old chart-topper was set to headline the inaugural festival in Bogota in September, but she changed her mind amidst intensifying panic over the virus.

After being left with no time to find a replacement, organisers cancelled the two-day event, Colombian news outlet La Tercera reports.

“After the cancellation of the main artist hours before the announcement of the line-up and facing major difficulties in finding a suitable replacement, festival organisers have been forced to cancel the inaugural Lollapalooza Colombia,” organisers wrote on the festival’s website.

“The organisers wish to express their deep appreciation to all the fans who supported the festival since day one, as well as the sponsors and the media partners.”

Wiz Khalifa, Lana Del Rey, Disclosure and The Chainsmokers were all confirmed to perform at the festival.